By Aidan Small
WHAT HAPPENED
We made a disappointing start to 2021 on Sunday as we were held to a 1-1 draw by Reading at the Madejski Stadium.
Anna Patten was handed her second Arsenal debut after rejoining the club last week, while Jordan Nobbs missed out as a precaution with a tight calf.
Lining up in an attacking 3-2-2-3 formation, Joe Montemurro would have hoped for a fast start from his side, but it was the hosts who came flying out of the blocks, with two former Gunners combining for the opener.
Standing over a free-kick, Emma Mitchell whipped a dangerous delivery into the penalty area and Lauren Bruton was on hand to finish at the near post after just five minutes.